Hi, Dearborn. Since we’re all best friends now, I can share a secret. I’m going to tell you how I first found my way to the stage. It’s simple: a girl. I’m not going to mention her name, but, as with most actors, the only reason I auditioned for the spring musical at Dearborn High in 1994 (God, I’m old) was because I wanted to impress a girl. Later, after being rejected at least four times, I moved on from my love for her to my love for a more plausible relationship. One that would make me laugh, cry, jump for joy and teach me stillness like nothing else could: the stage.

That’s why this month’s article is all about the power of high school theater!

I went to Dearborn High (class of ’97, WHAT WHAT!). I, initially because of my love for this girl and subsequently because of my newfound love of performing, was very involved in the theater program. It was cool. It was fun. It was a great way to meet girls … I mean people … great way to meet people! It’s been over nearly 15 years since my first show at DHS, and I think of those memories fondly and often.

This weekend, Mainstage Dearborn High presents the golden age classic musical, “Hello, Dolly!” The show appeared on Broadway in 1964 and won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. (Remember in last month’s column when I explained the origin of the Tony Award?)

The director of theater at Dearborn High, Greg Viscomi, has been a mentor, inspiration and friend to all of his students over his nearly 15-year tenure in the program. I would certainly consider Greg (or “GPV” as many of his student fondly call him) a great friend, a constant mentor and always an inspiration. He is one of the main reasons I am, to this day, involved in the arts.

Greg was super busy preparing the show for its opening performances, but he took time to answer some of my questions about the program and the 45 shows he’s directed at DHS over the years.

MM: Can I have a little background of the program at DHS?

GPV: The DHS theater program has been around for quite a long time. The program in the 1970s and ’80s was pretty strong but then went downhill for a couple of years in the ’90s before I took it over. Then with a little assistance, we all brought the program up to probably its highest level ever.

MM: What are some of your favorite shows since you’ve been director of the program?

GPV: Both productions of “West Side Story” (’97 and 2007), Both productions of “Guys and Dolls” (’96, 2004), “The Music Man” (2003) and “Kiss Me, Kate” (2008) are major standouts in my mind.

MM: What are some awards and recognition the program has seen over the years?

GVP: The program has been honored consistently during the past 15 years with the following:

 • Over 40 Dearborn Press and Guide Entertainment Awards for Theatre Excellence.

• Nine consecutive nominations to perform at the American High School Theatre Festival as part of the world famous Fringe Arts Festival in Scotland.

• Numerous students have gone on to study theater and the performing arts in college.

• Numerous students have won medals and honors at the various Michigan High School Thespian Festivals we have attended.

MM: Any memorable moments from the current production (“Hello, Dolly!”) you care to mention?

GPV: I think when it finally started to come together this week. The moment when the show starts to take form is always very rewarding.

Please check out Mainstage Dearborn High’s production of “Hello, Dolly!” this weekend: 7:30 p.m. Saturday April 4, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 5. Tickets are $11 general admission, $10 college students with identification, and $7 students and senior citizens. Call (313) 827-1647 for information and ticket reservations.

QUESTIONS: (PS. ASK ME SOME QUESTIONS, I’m running low…)

Q: “How do I be an extra in some of these movies coming to town?” — Zeina M, 19

A: That’s not so simple. There is really no jurisdiction for “extras” work in this region. The only “extras” casting I’ve heard of is Motor City Casting. Check ’em out at motorcitycasting.com. If you find a better answer, please fill me in!

Q: “What is your favorite song on the new Kelly Clarkston album?” — Sarah B, 21

A: Firstly, my dear, it’s ClarkSON … there’s no “T!!!” She’s not a city in Michigan. Secondly, I love tracks 1-3, 5-8, 10-13, 15 and 16. Essentially the whole album! You?

EVENTS:

HIGH SCHOOL SHOWS:

Dearborn High:
“Hello, Dolly!” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 4, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 5.

Edsel Ford:
“Rumors,” April 28 through May 1